BKK Has Prepared Budapest’s Public Transport for the UEFA Champions League Final

Budapest’s public transport company, BKK, has spent months preparing the city’s network for the 2026 UEFA Champions League Final, making it one of the largest logistical challenges in recent years. On Saturday, 30 May, around 60,000 supporters are expected to arrive in the capital, and BKK is working with service providers and authorities to ensure smooth, safe, and comfortable travel for everyone.

BKK is especially encouraging fans and locals to use public transport, particularly the metro, as the fastest and most reliable way to get around during the final weekend. The main match will take place at Puskás Aréna, but the event also includes the Champions Festival at Heroes’ Square, fan zones in Városliget and near MTK Sportpark, and additional events at Papp László Budapest Sports Arena. All of these locations will see significant crowds, and BKK has tailored its transport plan accordingly.

Extra Capacity and More Frequent Services Across the Network

BKK and its partners, including BKV Zrt. and ArrivaBus, will operate with significantly increased capacity during the final and the days around it. The M2 and M4 metro lines, which are the main routes to Puskás Aréna, will run every two to three minutes during peak times, while tram line 1 will also be intensified. The M1 metro, serving Heroes’ Square and the Champions Festival, will run more frequently for four days in line with the festival’s opening hours.

On match day, about 100 extra vehicles – buses, trams, and metro trains – will be added to the network to keep journeys smooth and predictable between all key venues. Direct services will also connect Budapest Airport with the fan meeting points, and airport links will be strengthened overall.

Free Public Transport for Match Ticket Holders

One of the most important visitor benefits is that match ticket holders can travel free of charge on all public transport within Budapest’s administrative boundaries from 29 to 31 May, excluding the Zugliget Chairlift and the Buda Castle Funicular. This includes the entire metro, tram, and bus network, as well as the 100E Airport Express bus.

If you have a ticket to the PSG–Arsenal Champions League Final, you can simply show your match ticket during inspections instead of buying a separate transport ticket. If you do not have a match ticket, or if you are travelling before 29 May or after 31 May, a valid ticket or pass purchased and validated before boarding is required.

Airport Transfers and Late-Night Services Exceptionally Well Prepared

BKK has also strengthened airport connections to handle the surge of international visitors. Between 29 and 31 May, the 100E Airport Express and 200E buses will run every two to three minutes, and additional buses will assist on the days before and after the match. For the first time in recent years, Terminal 1 at Budapest Airport will reopen temporarily to support match-related traffic, with special 100E services and mobile ticketing available on site.

After the match, late-night travel will still be easily accessible. Metro services run until 1:00 AM, while tram line 6 and the 100E and 200E airport buses operate around the clock. For fans leaving from the fan meeting points, Champions Express buses to the airport will also run until 6:00 AM.

Practical Tips for Visitors to Budapest During the Final

For tourists visiting Budapest for the Champions League Final, a few simple habits will make your trip much smoother. First, always plan your journey in advance using the BudapestGO app, which offers real-time route planning, live traffic updates, and mobile ticketing in one place. This is especially useful when moving between the airport, your hotel, fan zones, and the stadium.

Arrive early at venues, ideally at least two hours before kick-off. Metro stations and surrounding streets can become very crowded before the match, and early arrival reduces stress and ensures you do not miss any part of the experience. Avoid taxis and private cars near the stadium on match day, as major road closures and limited parking will make these options slow and sometimes impossible.

If you have a match ticket, keep it ready on your phone or printed out, as you may need to show it for free travel on public transport. If you do not have a match ticket, buy and validate your transport ticket before boarding, either in the BudapestGO app, at ticket machines, or at customer service centres. For the best experience, consider purchasing a 24-hour or 72-hour Budapest travelcard if you plan to use public transport frequently during your stay.

Finally, follow the instructions of on-site staff and passenger coordinators, especially around Puskás Aréna, Heroes’ Square, and the fan zones. Temporary routing and crowd management measures may be in place, and their guidance will help you move safely and quickly through the city. With these tips and BKK’s enhanced services, you can focus on enjoying the match and the unique atmosphere of the Champions League Final in Budapest.